Method and apparatus for resecting and replacing an aortic valve

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for delivering a device to a given location within a heart, the method and apparatus being adapted for: passing a first catheter through the left atrium of the heart, through the mitral valve and into the left ventricle, and passing a second catheter through the aorta toward the heart, one or the other of the first catheter and the second catheter, with the device attached thereto, forming a device-carrying assembly for engagement with the remaining catheter; causing the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter to engage one another so as to form a connection therebetween; and retracting one of the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter in a direction opposite to the other of the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter so as to position the device relative to the given location within the heart.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/894,677, filed Jul. 19, 2004, now allowed, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. 7,201,761, issued Apr. 10, 2007, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,434, issued Aug. 3, 2004, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/488,548, filed Jul. 18, 2003, and titled “Method and Apparatus for Resecting and Replacing an Aortic Valve”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to apparatus and methods for performing cardiac surgery in general, and more particularly to apparatus and methods for performing cardiac surgery while the heart is beating.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Of all valvular heart lesions, aortic stenosis carries the worst prognosis. Within one year of diagnosis, approximately half of all patients with critical aortic stenosis have died, and by three years, this figure rises to approximately 80%. Currently, the most prominent and effective treatment for patients with aortic stenosis is aortic valve replacement via open heart surgery. Unfortunately, this procedure is a substantial and invasive undertaking for the patient.

While there have been significant advances in heart valve technology over the past 30 years, there has been little progress in the development of safer and less invasive valve delivery systems. Aortic valve replacement currently requires a stemotomy or thoracotomy, use of cardiopulmonary bypass to arrest the heart and lungs, and a large incision on the aorta. The native valve is resected through this incision and then a prosthetic valve is sutured to the inner surface of the aorta with a multitude of sutures passing only partly into the wall of the aorta. Given the current invasiveness of this procedure and the requirement to utilize cardiopulmonary bypass, aortic valve replacement surgery is associated with a high risk of morbidity and mortality. This is especially true in elderly patients, and in those patients who require concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting. Even when a good surgical result is achieved, virtually all patients require approximately 6 weeks to several months to fully recover from the procedure. In order to decrease these associated risks of aortic valve surgery, many have pursued novel approaches and technologies.

Less invasive approaches to aortic valve surgery have generally followed two paths.

In the 1980's, there was a flurry of interest in percutaneous balloon valvotomy. In this procedure, a cardiologist introduced a catheter through the femoral artery to dilate the patient's aortic valve, thereby relieving the stenosis. Using the technology available at that time, success was limited: the valve area was increased only minimally, and nearly all patients had restenosis within one year.

More recently, surgeons have approached the aortic valve via smaller chest wall incisions. However, these approaches still require cardiopulmonary bypass and cardiac arrest, which themselves entail significant morbidity and a prolonged post-operative recovery.

The ideal minimally invasive approach to the treatment of aortic valve disease requires aortic valve replacement without cardiopulmonary bypass and without cardiac arrest. Such an approach would greatly reduce patient morbidity and mortality and hasten recovery. Unfortunately, although there has been great progress in the treatment of coronary artery disease without cardiopulmonary bypass (e.g., angioplasty, with or without stenting, and “off-pump” coronary artery bypass grafting), similar advances have not yet been realized in heart valve surgery. With an aging population and improved access to advanced diagnostic testing, the incidence and accurate diagnosis of aortic stenosis will continue to increase. The development of a system for “off-pump” aortic valve replacement would be of significant benefit to this increasing patient population.

There are three important challenges to replacing a diseased aortic valve without cardiopulmonary bypass.

The first challenge is to remove the diseased valve without causing stroke or other ischemic events that might result from the liberation of particulate material while removing the diseased valve.

The second challenge is to prevent cardiac failure during removal of the diseased valve. In this respect it must be appreciated that the aortic valve continues to serve a critical function even when it is diseased. However, as the diseased valve is removed, it becomes acutely and severely incompetent, causing the patient to develop heart failure which results in death unless the function of the valve is taken over by another means.

The third challenge is placing a prosthetic valve into the vascular system and affixing it to the wall of the aorta. More particularly, during cardiac rhythm, the aortic and arterial pressures are substantially greater than atmospheric pressure. Therefore, any sizable incision made to the aorta in order to insert a standard valve prosthesis into the arterial system creates the potential for uncontrollable bleeding from the incision site. Furthermore, even if bleeding is successfully controlled, pressures within the aorta may result in weakening of the aorta caused by aortic wall dissection. In addition, large incisions on the aorta also increase the potential for liberating plaque from the aortic wall that can lead to embolic complications.

For these reasons, prior art valve prostheses potentially suitable for off-pump implantation have relied upon relatively flimsy expandable structures to support and secure the valve within the aorta. More particularly, these prosthetic valves are constructed so that they can be compressed to a relatively small dimension suitable for insertion into the arterial system, advanced to the site of the aortic valve, and then expanded against the aortic wall. Unfortunately, however, none of these relatively flimsy valve prostheses have proven adequate to endure the repetitive stresses undergone by the aortic valve over the ten to twenty years typically required.

In addition to the foregoing, the precise placement of such expandable prosthetic valves in the correct sub-coronary position can be extremely challenging, particularly in view of the high pressure, pulsatile blood flow passing through the aorta. Furthermore, expandable prosthetic valves would typically be positioned from a remote artery, which would reduce the ability to precisely control the placement and positioning of the device and therefore would increases the risk of obstructing the coronary arteries. The expandable prosthetic valves are held on the ends of elongate, flexible catheters that are threaded into the aorta, around the aortic arch and then expanded. The pulsatile flow during cardiac rhythm induces a to-and-fro motion of the valve prosthesis relative to the aorta that makes the timing of valve expansion critical for proper placement of the expandable prosthetic valve and hence the survival of the patient.

Finally, many of the challenges discussed in the foregoing section pertaining to aortic valve replacement are also relevant to other procedures in the aortic root such as aortic valve resection; aortic valve decalcification, stent grafting for aortic dissections, etc.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is, therefore, one object of the present invention to enable the passage of a device from the left atrium, through the left ventricle, and into the arterial system.

Further, another object of the present invention is to enable the implantation of a device in the arterial system without cardiopulmonary bypass.

Further, another object of the present invention is to enable the implantation of a prosthetic valve in the arterial system without cardiopulmonary bypass.

Another object of the present invention is to allow the insertion of such a valve while minimizing the risks to the patient posed by large arterial incisions.

And another object of the present invention is to simplify the precise placement of such a valve.

Further, another object of the present invention is to enable the implantation of a device other than a valve, such as but not limited to a valve resection tool, a decalcifying tool, an aortic valve repair tool, or a stented aortic graft, in the arterial system without cardiopulmonary bypass.

Another object of the present invention is to allow the insertion of a device other than a valve, such as but not limited to a valve resection tool, a decalcifying tool, an aortic valve repair tool, or a stented aortic graft, while minimizing the risks to the patient posed by large arterial incisions.

And another object of the present invention is to simplify the precise placement of a device other than a valve, such as but not limited to a valve resection tool, a decalcifying tool, an aortic valve repair tool, or a stented aortic graft.

These and other objects of the invention are addressed by the present invention which, in one form of the invention, comprises a method for delivering a device to a given location within a heart, the method comprising:

passing a first catheter through the left atrium of the heart, through the mitral valve and into the left ventricle, and passing a second catheter through the aorta toward the heart, one or the other of the first catheter and the second catheter with the device attached thereto forming a device-carrying assembly for engagement with the remaining catheter;

causing the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter to engage one another so as to form a connection therebetween;

retracting one of the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter in a direction opposite to the other of the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter so as to position the device relative to the given location within the heart.

In another form of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for delivering a device to a given location within a heart, the apparatus comprising:

a first catheter and a second catheter, the first catheter having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the first catheter configured to pass through the left atrium of the heart, through the mitral valve into the left ventricle, the second catheter configured to pass through the aorta and the aortic valve, and at least one of the first catheter and the second catheter carrying the device; and

connection means for selectively connecting the distal end of the first catheter and distal end of the second catheter to one another;

wherein the first catheter and the second catheter are connected together such that the device is positioned relative to the given location within the heart by selectively retracting one of the first catheter and the second catheter so as to move the connected catheters through the heart.

In another form of the invention, there is provided a method for delivering a device to a given location within a heart, the method comprising:

advancing a first catheter through the left atrium of the heart, through the mitral valve and into the left ventricle;

advancing a second catheter through the aorta toward the heart, advancing the second catheter through the aortic valve;

connecting the first catheter and the second catheter together; and

retracting one of the first catheter and the second catheter in a direction opposite to one another so as to position the device relative to the given location within the heart.

In another form of the invention, there is provided a method for positioning a device at a given location within a heart, the method comprising:

inserting a distal end of a first catheter into a left atrium of the heart;

inserting a distal end of a second catheter into an aorta toward the heart;

advancing at least one of the distal end of the first catheter and the distal end of the second catheter through the heart to position the distal end of the first catheter and the distal end of the second catheter adjacent to one another;

attaching the first catheter and the second catheter to one another;

retracting one of the first catheter and the second catheter, with the device in attachment to one of the first catheter and the second catheter, so as to position the device adjacent to the given location within the heart.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other objects and features of the present invention will be more fully disclosed or rendered obvious by the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, which is to be considered together with the accompanying drawings wherein like numbers refer to like elements and further wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic side view showing the introduction of a valve prosthesis and prosthesis holding apparatus into the left atrium of the heart, through an atriotomy, using a first manipulation instrument;

FIG. 2 is a schematic side view showing passage of the apparatus of FIG. 1 from the left atrium, through the mitral valve, and into the left ventricle;

FIG. 3 is a schematic side view showing the introduction of a second manipulation instrument into the left ventricle through an arteriotomy into the arterial system;

FIG. 4 is a schematic side view showing the second manipulation instrument being attached to the prosthesis holding apparatus while the first manipulation instrument remains secured to the prosthesis holding apparatus;

FIG. 5 is a schematic side view similar to that of FIG. 4, except showing the first manipulation instrument being removed from the surgical site while the second manipulation instrument remains secured to the prosthesis holding apparatus;

FIG. 6 is a schematic side view showing the second manipulation instrument positioning the prosthetic valve within the aorta prior to fixation;

FIG. 7 is a schematic side view showing the prosthetic valve secured to the tissues of the aorta following removal of the second manipulation instrument and prosthesis holding apparatus;

FIGS. 8, 9 and 10 are enlarged schematic views showing a preferred construction for the valve holding apparatus, and for the attachment to, and detachment from, the prosthetic valve;

FIG. 11 is a schematic view showing a guide for guiding the second manipulation instrument relative to the first manipulation instrument such that the second manipulation instrument will be aimed directly at the second manipulation mount when the first manipulation mount is secured to the first manipulation instrument;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention for a punch configured for a left ventricle approach to a diseased valve;

FIGS. 13-17 are schematic views of preferred embodiments of the present invention for a punch configured for an aortic approach to a diseased valve;

FIGS. 18-22 are schematic views of preferred embodiments of the present invention for resection of a heart valve using a power shaver in combination with a power shaver guide;

FIGS. 23-32 are schematic views of an expandable resector views of an expandable resector with three arms, in which one of the arms carries a cutting device;

FIGS. 33-37 are schematic views of a spiked resector for holding portions of the valve prior to closing the cutting portions together;

FIGS. 38-49 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention including an expandable blade resector delivered through a catheter;

FIGS. 50-57 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention including an expandable cylinder resector delivered through a catheter;

FIGS. 58-60 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention including a power auger cutter for cutting and removing portions of a heart valve;

FIGS. 61-63 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention including an offset cutter;

FIGS. 64-70 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention including a trisector having three cutting blades;

FIGS. 71-76 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the invention including a valve entrapment cutter;

FIGS. 77-79 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the invention including a gripper cutter having a pair of graspers and a cutting element;

FIGS. 80-90 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention including a valve cutter and resector for use with a left ventricle approach;

FIG. 91 is a schematic view of a resection tool having several different types of protective guides;

FIGS. 92-101 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention including a valve cutter and resector for use with a left ventricle approach, the valve cutter and resector having an umbrella covered by filter material; and

FIGS. 102-105 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention including a debridement tool controlled by a debridement catheter, which is introduced in an antegrade approach, and a transvalvular catheter, which is introduced in a retrograde approach, to engage one another in a mechanical or magnetic coupling. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a delivery system of the invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention can be used to deliver or implant a variety of prostheses into the arterial system or left side of the heart. The prosthesis used in the preferred embodiment is an aortic valve prosthesis. Alternatively, the prosthesis may comprise, but is not limited to, a cylindrical arterial stent, an arterial prosthesis or graft, a ventricular assist device, a device for the treatment of heart failure such as an intraventricular counterpulsation balloon, chordae tendinae prostheses, arterial filters suitable for acute or chronic filtration of emboli from the blood stream, arterial occlusion devices and the like.

For clarity of illustration, the present invention will hereinafter be discussed in the context of implanting an aortic valve prosthesis.

It should also be appreciated that the present invention may be practiced either “on-pump” or “off-pump”. In other words, the present invention may be performed either with or without the support of cardiopulmonary bypass. The present invention also may be performed either with or without cardiac arrest.

Looking now at FIG. 1, there is shown an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. A prothesis holding apparatus 100 is secured to a prosthetic valve 200 so as to form a temporary prosthetic assembly 300. A first manipulation instrument 400 is secured to a first manipulation mount 105 formed on prosthesis holding apparatus 100, whereby temporary prosthetic assembly 300 may be moved about by first manipulation instrument 400. Temporary prosthetic assembly 300 has been positioned in left atrium 5 by passing first manipulation instrument 400 through atriotomy 10. Alternatively, the temporary prosthetic assembly 300 could be passed into the left atrium 5, using first manipulation instrument 400, through any of the pulmonary veins 15 (not shown). And in another form of the invention, temporary prosthesis assembly 300 could be passed into the left atrium by first passing the assembly into the right atrium via an atriotomy, and then into the left atrium is through an incision made in the interatrial septum.

Prosthetic valve 200 is preferably a conventional mechanical aortic valve of the sort well known in the art, although other forms of valve prostheses may also be used.

In one preferred form of the invention, first manipulation instrument 400 functions by virtue of the relative motion of an outer cannula 405 relative to an inner grasper 410. More particularly, inner grasper 410 has an elastically deformable distal gripper 415 which is open when the gripper is outside of outer cannula 405. However, when deformable gripper 415 is pulled at least partially into or against outer cannula 405, gripper 415 is elastically deformed into a closed position, whereby it may grip an object, e.g., first manipulation mount 105 formed on prosthesis holding apparatus 100. First manipulation instrument 400 is shown in FIG. 1 in its closed position, wherein deformable gripper 415 is closed about first manipulation mount 105, such that prosthesis holding apparatus 100, and hence the entire temporary prosthetic assembly 300, is held secured to the distal end of first manipulation instrument 400.

The specific embodiment of first manipulation instrument 400 shown in FIG. 1 is presented as an illustrative example only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Many other arrangements may be used for releasably gripping first manipulation mount 105 formed on prosthesis holding apparatus 100. Furthermore, first manipulation mount 105 may itself have many potential shapes and properties to enable releasable attachment to first manipulation instrument 400. Other possible configurations for releasably securing first manipulation mount 105 to first manipulation instrument 400 include, but are not limited to, opposing magnet poles in the mount and instrument, adhesives, a press fit between mount and instrument, threaded couplings, suture loops, a balloon or balloons expanded within a mating cavity, collapsible barbs, etc. For the purposes of the present invention, the important point is that some arrangement be provided for releasably securing the prosthesis holding apparatus (and hence the prosthetic valve) to a manipulation instrument.

Still looking now at FIG. 1, first manipulation instrument 400 is shown as having a long axis that extends outside of the heart, with first manipulation instrument 400 being straight along that axis. However, it should also be appreciated that first manipulation instrument 400 may, alternatively, be formed with a curve at one or more location along this length. Furthermore, first manipulation instrument 400 may be constructed so as to allow articulation at the distal end, the proximal end, or both, or at any point therebetween. In addition, first manipulation instrument 400 may be formed either entirely rigid or substantially flexible, along all or part of its length.

First manipulation instrument 400 is also shown as having a relatively small dimension perpendicular to its long axis. This configuration allows atriotomy 10 to be reduced in size after the passage of temporary prosthetic assembly 300 into left atrium 5. This perpendicular dimension may be constant or varied along the long axis of first manipulation instrument 400.

The specific embodiment of the prosthesis holding apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 is presented as an illustrative example only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Many other arrangements may be used for releasably gripping prosthetic valve 200 and for providing first manipulation mount 105, as well as providing a second manipulation mount 110 that will be discussed below. In FIG. 1, first manipulation mount 105 and second manipulation mount 110 are shown as spherical additions to struts 115 extending away from prosthetic valve 200. These spheres are intended to fit, respectively, within the deformable gripper 415 of first installation instrument 400 and the deformable gripper 515 of a second installation instrument 500 (discussed below). First manipulation mount 105 and/or second manipulation mount 110 could, alternatively, be indentations within a portion of male or female threaded extensions from, magnetized surfaces of, slots or holes in or through, prosthesis holding apparatus 100, etc. Furthermore, first manipulation mount 105 and/or second manipulation mount 110 could be portions of the struts 115 extending away from prosthetic valve 200, where those portions may be either reduced or enlarged in dimension relative to neighboring portions of the struts. Many other constructions may also be used to form first manipulation mount 105 and second manipulation mount 110. For the purposes of the present invention, the important point is that some arrangement be provided for releasably securing the prosthesis holding apparatus (and hence the prosthetic valve) to manipulation instruments.

Still looking now at FIG. 1, it will be appreciated that the native aortic valve has been removed. Removal of the native aortic valve is not a necessary element of the present invention, but may be incorporated into the preferred method. Removal of the native aortic valve may be accomplished either before or after passage of the temporary prosthetic assembly 300 into left atrium 5.

When the methods and devices of the present invention are employed during an off-pump valve replacement procedure, it may be beneficial to provide temporary valves and/or filters in the arterial system, downstream of the site of the native aortic valve. Thus, for example, in FIG. 1 there is shown a temporary valve 600 (not shown in the remaining figures) which may be used to support cardiac function during and following removal of the diseased cardiac valve. Temporary valve 600 is shown positioned in aorta 20. Alternatively, temporary valve 600 may be positioned in the aortic arch or the descending aorta. In addition, temporary valve 600 may incorporate a filter therein to mitigate the risks of embolic complications. Alternatively, a separate filter may be employed within the aorta and/or the branch arteries extending therefrom.

FIG. 2 shows first manipulation instrument 400 being used to manipulate temporary prosthetic assembly 300 (and hence prosthetic valve 200) into left ventricle 25 through mitral valve 30. After temporary prosthetic assembly 300 has passed into left ventricle 25, the first manipulation instrument 400 will continue to traverse mitral valve 30; however, the reduced perpendicular cross-section of first manipulation instrument 400 will cause only minimal disruption of the function of mitral valve 30.

FIG. 3 shows the insertion of a second manipulation instrument 500 through the arterial system and into left ventricle 25. Second manipulation instrument 500 is shown being inserted through an incision 35 on aorta 20. Alternatively, second manipulation instrument 500 could be inserted into a central or peripheral artery and than advanced into left ventricle 25. Aortic incision 35 is small relative to the atriotomy 10 formed in left atrium 5.

Bleeding through incision 35 may be readily controlled through a variety of means. These include, but are not limited to, employing a valved or un-valved arterial cannula, a purse-string suture placed around incision 35 and then pulled tight about second manipulation instrument 500, a side-arm graft sewn to aorta 20 that may be constricted about a region of second manipulation instrument 500, the use of a tight fit between a portion of second manipulation instrument 500 and aortic incision 35, etc.

Second manipulation instrument 500 is shown in FIG. 3 as being of the same form and function of first manipulation instrument 400. Again, outer cannula 505 fits around inner grasper 510, and the relative motion between grasper 510 and cannula 505 can be used to deform gripper 515 between open and closed positions. Alternatively, second manipulation instrument 500 may have any of the variety of other forms and functions described above with respect to first manipulation instrument 400. Furthermore, second manipulation instrument 500 is preferably of a smaller dimension perpendicular to its long axis than first manipulation instrument 400 so as to reduce the risks posed by arteriotomy 35.

FIG. 4 shows second manipulation instrument 500 being secured to the second manipulation mount 110 formed on prosthesis holding apparatus 100. This is done while first manipulation instrument 400 is secured to first manipulation mount 105 formed on prosthesis holding apparatus 100, in order that temporary prosthetic assembly 300 will be under control at all times during the “hand-off” between first manipulation instrument 400 and second manipulation instrument 500.

It should be appreciated that the orientation of second manipulation mount 110 is preferably such as to enable the long axis of second manipulation instrument 500 to be substantially perpendicular to the flow area of prosthetic valve 200. This arrangement is particularly helpful when guiding prosthetic valve 200 into its final position within aorta 20 as shown hereafter in FIGS. 6 and 7.

The use of two separate manipulation instruments, and the method of passing valve prosthesis 200 from one to the other, avoids the complex manipulations of valve prosthesis 200 that would be required to position valve 200 within aorta 20 using only a single manipulation instrument introduced through the left atrium. In this respect it should be appreciated that such a “single manipulation instrument” technique has been found to be possible, however, and is best facilitated by using a manipulation instrument capable of bending or articulating at or near the site of its attachment to valve holding apparatus 100. In this respect it has been found that it can be particularly advantageous to provide a manipulation instrument capable of bending or articulating within about 4 cm or so of the point of attachment to valve holding apparatus 100. It has also been found that it can be particularly advantageous for such an articulating instrument to be able to deflect its distal tip by an angle of between about 90 to 180 degrees from the long axis of the first manipulation instrument 400 shown in FIG. 4.

The angular offset of first manipulation mount 105 and second manipulation mount 110 is preferably set to facilitate passage of temporary prosthetic assembly 300 from left atrium 5 to aorta 20 using two substantially straight manipulation instruments, e.g., first manipulation instrument 400 and second manipulation instrument 500. This angle is preferably approximately 45 degrees. However, this angle may also be varied so as to optimize passage of different valve designs or other prostheses using curved, straight or articulating manipulation instruments from various access sites into the left atrium and arterial system. This angle may be fixed or variable on a given prosthesis holding apparatus 100.

Once second manipulation instrument 500 is safely secured to second manipulation mount 110, first manipulation instrument 400 may be released from first manipulation mount 105 and removed from left ventricle 5, as shown in FIG. 5. Alternatively, first manipulation instrument 400 may remain secured to prosthesis holding apparatus 100 or prosthetic valve 200 by a flexible tether so as to facilitate re-attachment of first manipulation instrument 400 to valve holding apparatus 100 if necessary.

FIG. 6 shows temporary prosthesis assembly 300 being positioned by second manipulation instrument 500 at a preferred fixation site. This fixation site is preferably upstream of or proximal to the coronary arteries, although this position is not a restrictive requirement of the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows valve prosthesis 200 secured to the walls of aorta 30 and removal of second manipulation instrument 500 and prosthesis holding apparatus 100. In this respect it should be appreciated that prosthesis holding apparatus 100 is preferably wholly or partially flexible, or otherwise collapsible, so as to allow the prosthesis holding apparatus 100 to be collapsed radially and then withdrawn through arteriotomy 35 after prosthesis holding apparatus 100 has been released from prosthetic valve 200. Alternatively, prosthesis holding apparatus 100 may be removed from the vascular system, either partially or entirely, through atriotomy 10 by first manipulation instrument 400, by a tether leading therefrom, or a separate instrument. Of course, in the situation where prosthesis holding apparatus 100 is to be removed via atriotomy 10, the prosthesis holding apparatus 100 should be appropriately mounted to prosthetic valve 200, i.e., prosthesis holding apparatus 100 should be positioned on the atriotomy side of the valve.

In FIG. 7, valve prosthesis 200 is shown secured to aorta 30 using barbs or staples 700. Barbs or staples 700 may be a component of, and/or deployed from, prosthesis holding apparatus 100, and/or valve prosthesis 200, and/or a separate fixation device. Alternatively, barbs or staples 700 may be deployed by a separate instrument inserted through the outer surface of aorta 30, from a remote site in the arterial system, through atriotomy 10 or through some other incision into a cardiac chamber or great vessel.

Looking next at FIGS. 8-10, there is shown one preferred configuration for prosthesis holding apparatus 100. More particularly, prosthesis holding apparatus 100 comprises a base 120 having a longitudinal opening 123 (FIG. 9) therein for slidably receiving a rod 125 therethrough. Base 120 also comprises a plurality of side slots 130. Each side slot 130 has a strut 115 pivotally connected thereto. Slots 130 are constructed so that each strut 115 can pivot freely between (i) the position shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, and (ii) the position shown in FIG. 10. A body 135 is mounted on rod 125. A plurality of wire fingers 140 are secured to body 135. Wire fingers 140 extend through holes 145 formed in base 120 and extend around the cuff 205 of prosthetic valve 200. Second manipulation mount 110 is secured to the proximal end of rod 125. First manipulation mount 105 is secured to one of the struts 115. Alternatively, as noted above, first manipulation mount 105 may be formed by a strut 115 itself, provided that first manipulation instrument 400 is appropriately adapted to engage the strut 15 directly.

In use, prosthesis holding apparatus 100 is fit about valve prosthesis 200 so that wire fingers 140 hold valve cuff 205 to struts 115. Prosthesis holding apparatus 100 is then engaged by first manipulation instrument 400, using first manipulation mount 105, and moved into and through right atrium 5, through mitral valve 30 and into left ventricle 25. Then second manipulation tool 500, comprising outer cannula 505 and inner grasper 510 having the deformable gripper 515, engages second manipulation mount 110. The distal tip 520 of outer cannula 505 is placed against edge 150 of base 120 and gripper 515 is drawn proximally within outer cannula 505 until deformable gripper 515 engages shoulder 525, whereupon prosthesis holding apparatus 100 (and hence prosthetic valve 200) will be mounted to second manipulation tool 500. Second manipulation tool 500 is then used to maneuver temporary prosthetic assembly 300 into position, whereupon the valve's cuff 205 is secured to the side wall of the aorta, e.g., with barbs, staples, suture, etc. Then prosthesis holding apparatus 100 is detached from prosthetic valve 200 by pulling inner grasper 510 proximally relative to outer cannula 505 so that wire fingers 140 are pulled free from valve cuff 205 (FIG. 9), whereby to free prosthesis holding apparatus 100 from the prosthetic valve 200. Then second manipulation instrument 500 is withdrawn out aorta 20 and arteriotomy 35, with struts 115 folding inwardly (FIG. 10) so as to pass through the arteriotomy. Struts 115 can be adapted to fold inwardly through engagement with the walls of the arteriotomy 35 or, alternatively, additional means (such as springs, cams, etc.) can be provided to fold struts 115 inwardly.

In practice, it has been found that it can sometimes be difficult to locate second manipulation mount 110 with second manipulation instrument 500 so as to “hand off” temporary prosthesis assembly 300 from first manipulation instrument 400 to second manipulation instrument 500. This can be particularly true where the procedure is to be conducted “off-pump”, i.e., without stopping the heart. To this end, and looking now at FIG. 11, there is shown a guide 800 for guiding second manipulation instrument 500 relative to first manipulation instrument 400 such that second manipulation instrument 500 will be aimed directly at second manipulation mount 110 when first manipulation mount 105 is secured to first manipulation instrument 400. More particularly, guide 800 comprises a first passageway 805 for slidably receiving first manipulation instrument 400, and a second passageway 810 for slidably receiving second manipulation instrument 500. Passageways 805 and 810 are oriented so that second manipulation instrument 500 will be aimed directly at second manipulation mount 110 when temporary prosthesis assembly 300 is held by first manipulation instrument 400 engaging first manipulation mount 105.

In accordance with the present invention, it is also possible to enter the left atrium other than through an exterior wall of the left atrium. Thus, for example, it is possible to introduce the prosthetic valve through an opening in an exterior wall of the right atrium, pass the prosthetic valve through an incision in the interatrial septum and across to the left atrium, and then advance the prosthetic valve to its implantation site via the mitral valve and the left ventricle.

As noted above, the manipulation instrument(s) do not need to take the form of the installation instrument 400 or 500. It is also possible to deliver the prosthetic valve to its implant site using a guidewire and a pusher tool riding on the guidewire.

Thus, for example, in an alternative preferred embodiment, a wire, a catheter, a tube or any other filament can be placed from the left atrium, through the ventricle and into the arterial system, over (or through) which a prosthesis or device can be advanced (pushed or pulled). As an example, a catheter with a balloon can be placed through an incision in the left atrial wall. The balloon can be inflated and this catheter can then be “floated” along the flow of blood across the mitral valve, into the left ventricle, and out into the arterial system. At that point the catheter can be grasped by an instrument placed through a small incision in the aorta or passed into the aorta by means of a remote vessel such as the femoral artery. At this point, the prosthesis or device can be mounted onto the catheter and either be pushed (or pulled) over the catheter into position. This procedure can be similarly performed by the use of a wire or other filament structure. Also, a tube could be employed, with the prosthesis or device being advanced within the tube.

Looking now at FIGS. 12-91, several preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown for removing a diseased valve without causing stroke or other ischemic events that might result from the liberation of particulate material. Valve resection may be necessary prior to valve replacement of a diseased valve, such as a stenotic valve, which will not open, or an insufficient valve, which will not close. In addition, the diseased valve may also be calcified or have a torn leaflet. In some of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, a crushing force is delivered to the diseased valve so as to displace the diseased valve prior to implantation of a replacement valve. However, adequate displacement of the diseased valve prior to implantation of a replacement valve may not be possible due to calcification or displacement alone may not allow the desired placement of the replacement valve. Several preferred embodiments of the present invention are configured to cut away and remove the diseased valve, rather than only crush it, so as to allow implantation of the replacement valve at a desired location.

Referring now to FIG. 12, a valve punch 900 is shown having a first frame member 905 and a second frame member 910 positioned relative to one another by an adjustable connector 915. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, first frame member 905 holds a blade 920 configured to form a closed perimeter and with its cutting surface facing toward second frame member 910. Second frame member 910 is configured with a corresponding cutting surface 925 facing toward the blade 920.

In use, punch 900 is positioned at a diseased valve (not shown) with adjustable connector 915 operated to space first frame member 905 and second frame member 910 apart from one another so as to receive at least a portion of the diseased valve (not shown) therebetween. Next, adjustable connector 915 is operated so as to close first frame member 905 and second frame member 910 toward one another. This action causes blade 920 to move past cutting surface 925 so as to sever the portion of the diseased valve (not shown) therebetween. Punch 900 may be removed with the resected valve contained between first frame member 905 and second frame member 910. Punch 900 may be configured for either an approach to the valve through the aorta, referred to as an aortic approach, or an approach to the valve through the left ventricle of the heart, referred to as a left ventricle approach.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and still referring to FIG. 12, punch 900 is configured to allow blood flow through first frame member 905 and second member 910. Screen portions 930 may be provided on first frame member 905 and second frame member 910 so as to contain small pieces of the resected valve, which may otherwise be carried away.

Adjustable connector 915 of punch 900 is preferably configured with a handle 935 for opening and closing first frame portion 905 and second frame portion 910 relative to one another. A spring 940 is also provided to bias first frame portion 905 and second frame portion 910 closed relative to one another. This configuration of punch 900 may be used in connection with the left ventricle approach with handle 935 being operable with a two tube controller (not shown). Alternatively, the shaft of adjustable connector 915 may be threadably connected to either first frame member 905 or second frame member 910 so as to allow adjustable connector 915 to open or close punch 900 with a twisting motion.

Looking now at FIGS. 13-17, an aortic approach punch 945 is shown for resecting diseased valve (not shown) using an aortic approach. Aortic approach punch 945 includes a first frame member 950 and a second frame member 955, with the two frame members being selectively movable by an actuator 960 so as to engage one another. First frame member 950 and second frame member 955 contain cutting edges 965, 970, respectively. Cutting edges 965, 970 engage with one another as operated by actuator 960 so as to sever and contain a portion of an aortic valve 975 positioned therebetween.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, first frame member 950 and second frame member 955 each contain a mesh filter 980. Each mesh filter 980 allows blood flow through punch 945 and prevents portions of the resected valve larger than openings in mesh filter 980 from passing through punch 945.

Looking now at FIG. 16, second frame member 955 is shown with a seat 985 for holding a portion of the resected valve against a corresponding structure of first frame member 950. Seat 985 is configured with voids 990 so as to permit blood flow through punch 945 while simultaneously holding the resected portion.

Looking now at FIG. 17, the aortic approach punch 945 is shown with first frame member 950 and second frame member 955 each having cutting teeth 995 in rotatable engagement with one another. Actuator 960 is configured to rotate and engage first frame member 950 and second frame member 955 relative to one another so as to cut portions of an aortic valve therebetween using cutting teeth 995.

Referring now to FIG. 18-22, a power shaver guide 1000 is shown for resecting a heart valve with a power shaver 1005, such as a commercially available arthroscopic device. Power shaver guide 1000 includes an opening 1010 to receive power shaver 1005 therethrough. Power shaver guide 1000 is sized to fit within the aorta. Preferably, power shaver guide 1000 is sized large enough to prevent power shaver 1005 from unintentionally cutting through a wall of the aorta but small enough to fit inside of the diseased valve. In addition, the diseased valve may be crushed prior to introduction of power shaver guide 1000 and power shaver 1005.

Looking now at FIGS. 18 and 19, a cutting window 1015 is provided in power shaver guide 1000 to allow cutting therethrough and to shield power shaver 1005 from cutting through the wall of the aorta.

Looking now at FIGS. 20 and 21, power shaver guide 1000 is shown with opening 1010 configured to hold power shaver 1005 positioned therethrough without requiring cutting window 1015 (see FIGS. 18 and 19).

Looking now at FIG. 22, in another preferred embodiment of the invention, power shaver guide 1000 is collapsible. Collapsible power shaver guide 1000 preferably comprises an inflatable balloon 1020. Inflatable balloon 1020 is shown in a collapsed state for insertion into the aorta and in an inflated state for resection of the diseased valve.

Looking now at FIGS. 23-32, in another preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is shown an expandable resector 1025 having three expandable arms 1030, in which one expandable arm 1030 carries a cutting device 1035. Cutting device 1035 includes a wire 1040, which is either rotary driven or reciprocically driven, so as to cut portions of a diseased valve. Wire 1040 is positioned within expandable arm 1030 to create a cutting window 1045. Cutting window 1045 may be formed either by recessing wire 1040 into expandable arm 1030 or by building up the portions of expandable arm 1030 surrounding cutting window 1045.

Wire 1040 may include a rough, abrasive surface for rotary driven or reciprocically driven cutting. Alternatively, wire 1040 may include an electrocautery element for cutting. A power shaver may also be used in place of wire 1040. The rough or abrasive embodiment of wire 1040 may include recesses formed in the wire 1040 or an abrasive metal dust coating added to it.

Looking now at FIGS. 33-37, in another preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is shown a spiked resector 1050. Spiked resector 1050 includes at least two spikes 1055 to hold valve leaflets in place as frame members 1065, 1070 are advanced toward one another. Spiked resector 1050 also includes a spike receiving portion 1060 to allow frame members 1065, 1070 to closely approach one another in order that a cutting mechanism 1075 (FIG. 37) cuts through the valve leaflets. In addition, one of the frame members 1065, 1070 may be mounted to a screw-driven assembly 1080 so as to axially rotate the mounted frame member to aid in cutting.

Referring now to FIGS. 38-49, in another preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is shown an expandable blade resector 1085 for resection of a heart valve using a catheter 1090. Expandable blade resector 1085 includes a set of blades 1095 and a hinged portion 1100. Blades 1095 and hinged portion 1100 are selectively positionable through catheter 1090. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, expandable blade resector 1085 includes a filter mesh portion 1105 (FIG. 44) at a distal end thereof covering hinge 1095. Filter mesh portion 1105 acts to capture portions of the resected valve. Blades 1095 may also be serrated to aid in cutting through a valve.

Looking now at FIGS. 50-57, in another preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is shown an expandable cylinder resector 1110 for resection of a heart valve using a catheter 1115. Expandable cylinder resector 1110 includes an inner rod 1120 attached to catheter 1115, an outer shell 1125 attached to inner rod 1120 at a first portion 1130 and in surrounding relation to inner rod 1120, and a spring 1135 being attached to outer shell 1125 at a second portion 1138 and contained by outer shell 1125. Expandable cylinder resector 1110 is operated by placing the outer shell 1125 within a portion of a heart valve and then turning inner rod 1120 to allow spring 1135 to expand the diameter of outer shell 1125 relative to inner rod 1120. In this configuration, expandable cylinder resector 1110 may be used to crush portions of a valve and/or as a centering guide in combination with another resecting tool shown mounted at 1140 (FIG. 55).

Looking now at FIGS. 53 and 54, inner rod 1120 is preferably adjustable to selectively open and close together two portions 1145, 1150 of outer shell 1125. These portions 1145, 1150 may be placed in an open position adjacent to an aortic valve and then actuated by inner rod 1120 to a closed position so as to cut through the aortic valve.

Referring now to FIGS. 58-60, in another preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is shown a power auger cutter 1155 for cutting and removing portions of a heart valve. Power auger cutter 1155 includes a tubular body 1160 containing an auger blade 1165. An opening 1170 is formed in tubular body 1160 to allow portions of a heart valve into the interior of power auger cutter 1155. Power auger cutter 1155 is configured to cut portions of the heart valve extending into opening 1170 by carrying the portions with auger blade 1165 deeper into tubular body 1160 until auger blade 1165 contacts tubular body 1160 at a junction 1180. After the severed portions of the heart valve pass junction 1180, auger blade 1165 continues to carry these portions through tubular body 1160 and out of the aorta.

Looking now at FIGS. 58 and 59, power auger cutter 1155 is provided with a set of guides 1185. Guides 1185 are positioned around at least a portion of opening 1170, which acts to shield against cutting the wall of the aorta. Preferably, the width of power auger cutter 1155 is about 0.20% of the aorta.

Looking at FIG. 60, power auger cutter 1155, configured without a set of guides, is preferably used with a delivery system. The delivery system either provides a shield against cutting the wall of the aorta or positions power auger cutter 1155. One such system is the expandable resector with three arms.

Referring now to FIGS. 61-63, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is shown an offset cutter 1190. Offset cutter has an inner rod 1195, an outer shell 1200, and a cutting blade 1205 positioned at the end of outer shell 1200. The diameter of outer shell 1200 is controlled by increasing or decreasing its length extending out of inner rod 1195. The large diameter of outer shell 1200 acts as a guide to shield against cutting the wall of the aorta with cutting blade 1205 as it cuts away portions of a heart valve.

Referring now to FIGS. 64-70, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is shown a trisector 1210 having three blades 1215 for resecting a heart valve. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, barbs 1220 are provided at a center portion of the trisector to spear and hold the leaflets of the heart valve while blades 1215 spin to cut through the heart valve. Blades 1215 may be configured to cut at a forward portion of trisector 1210, in which case trisector 1210 acts as plunging cutter. Alternatively, blades 1215 may be configured to cut at a side portion of the trisector 1210, in which trisector 1210 acts as a side cutter. For very hard calcification of a heart valve, it is preferred that trisector 1210 be configured as a plunging cutter to cut in a forward direction.

In an alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention, trisector 1210 is provided with a filtering mechanism 1220 (FIG. 68) to contain cut away portions of the valve for removal from the patient's body.

Referring now to FIGS. 71-76, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is shown a valve entrapment cutter 1225. Valve entrapment cutter 1225 includes a chamber 1230 with a retractable barb 1235 and a set of blades 1240 surrounding an end of chamber 1230. Blades 1240 may be configured to rotate around barb 1235 so as to cut through a portion of a valve pierced by barb 1235 as the portion enters chamber 1230. Alternatively, chamber 1230 may be configured to rotate around barb 1235 as the portion enters chamber 1230.

Referring now to FIGS. 77-79, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is shown a gripper cutter 1240 for the resecting of a portion of a heart valve. Gripper cutter 1240 includes a pair of graspers 1245 contained in a body 1250 with a cutting element 1255 positioned therebetween. Graspers 124 are extended distally from the distal end of body 1250 so as to contact a portion 1260 of a heart valve. Graspers 1245 are closed together through actuation of either graspers 1245 or body 1250. Graspers 1245 are then retracted with heart valve portion 1260 into body 1250. Cutting element 1255 closes together after graspers 1245 are retracted to a given point proximal to the end of cutting element 1255. This action causes heart valve portion 1260 to be cut away from the remaining portion of the heart valve and to be contained within body 1250.

Referring now to FIGS. 80-90, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is shown valve cutter and resector 1265 for use in a left ventricle approach. Valve cutter and resector 1265 includes a first handle 1270 for connection to a pass-off tool 1275 located in the left ventricle of the heart, a second handle 1280 for connection to a controller tool 1285 located in the aorta, a body portion 1290 between first handle 1270 and second handle 1280, a cutting blade 1295 axially rotatable on the inside surface of body portion 1290, and a set of retaining arms 1300 (FIG. 86) selectively expandable from second handle 1280. Valve cutter and resector 1265 is operable to resect a portion 1305 of an aortic valve 1310 by advancing through the left ventricle of the heart to aortic valve 1310 by means of pass-off tool 1275. Next, controller tool 1285 is advanced through the aorta, passes through the opening of aortic valve 1310 and is received by second handle 1280. First handle 1270 is then disengaged from pass-off tool 1275. Controller tool 1285 draws body portion 1290 distally with cutting blade 1295 spinning to cut through aortic valve 1310. Retaining arms 1300 expand from a folded configuration within second handle 1280 and hold resected portion 1305 within body portion 1290. First handle 1270 is repositioned and re-engaged to pass-off tool 1275 for removal through the left ventricle of the heart, with controller tool 1285 being disengaged from second handle 1280.

Referring now to FIG. 91, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is shown a resection tool 1315 having a protective guide 1320A-1320D to prevent cutting of the aortic wall through an opening 1325. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, protective guide 1320A is a rigid structure in a surrounding configuration to opening 1325. This embodiment is illustrated by the “double bridge” design. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, protective guide 1320B-1320D is a flexible structure adjacent to opening 1325. This embodiment is illustrated by the “inchworm”, “cantilever”, and “window slide” designs, in which a maximum deformation of the flexible structure is shown in phantom.

Looking next at FIGS. 92-101, there is shown a modified form of valve cutter and resector 1265. Again, this particular embodiment of debridement tool was designed with left atrial insertion and intra-cardiac hand-off in mind. A basic idea of this embodiment is the use of a thin-walled cylinder or body portion 1290 size-specific for the patient's anatomy. Here the tolerances are fairly small. The patient's left ventricular outflow tract and aortic valve annulus are carefully measured by transesophageal echo. An appropriately sized debridement tool 1265 (with an appropriately sized thin-wall cylinder 1290) is then selected. Within the thin-walled cylinder 1290 is a cylindrical razor or cutting blade 1295 with a serrated edge. This razor can be rotated manually by means of a catheter or controller tool 1285 attached during hand-off. The razor 1295 is completely contained within the thin-walled cylinder 1290 until actuated. The back of the cylinder is attached to a wire cage 1330 that streamlines the profile to facilitate insertion and removal of the debridement tool across the mitral valve, and supports a cup of filter material 1335 (shown schematically in FIG. 92 only) to capture the valve and valve debris liberated at the time of debridement. Coaxial to, and extending a few centimeters forward of, the cylinder is the transvalvular snout, or second handle, 1280. This consists of a thin-walled tube with multiple side fenestrations that is forced across the stenotic valve. The multiple fenestrations allow the continued passage of blood across the orifice, without exacerbating the degree of stenosis or the outflow tract gradient.

The debridement tool is passed across the mitral valve on the beating heart. A catheter or controller tool 1285 based across the stenotic aortic valve (transvalvular catheter) is advanced into the left ventricular chamber, to effect an intra cardiac hand-off, as described previously. In one possible construction, the hand-off catheter 1285 is passed percutaneously, perhaps down the central lumen of a valve/filter assembly, also passed percutaneously.

Ideally, the snout 1280 of the debridement tool and the tip of the transvalvular catheter 1285 are both fitted with rare earth magnets or other appropriate structures so as to facilitate rapid reproducible alignment. Once aligned, the transvalvular catheter 1285 is actuated to achieve a mechanical coupling to allow the debridement tool to be pulled forcibly into position. The tool 1275 which was initially used to pass the debridement tool across the mitral valve is then released and removed after mechanical coupling is accomplished, but before pulling the debridement tool into position across the stenotic valve.

Attached to the aforementioned snout 1280 is an umbrella 1300 comprised of rays (or struts of nitinol or other superelastic material) or other satisfactory material supporting a disk of filter material 1340 similar to that attached to the back of the debridement tool. The umbrella 1300 is designed so that it can be pulled across the stenotic valve in a closed configuration, from the ventricular side of the valve to the aortic side of the valve, and subsequently opened. The umbrella struts form a skeleton with a radius equal to that of the thin-walled cylinder 1290, and slightly greater than the cylindrical razor 1295. The disk of filter material has a radius that is somewhat greater than that of the thin-walled cylinder 1290. The umbrella struts may be attached to a ring that slides longitudinally with respect to the snout. The transvalvular catheter, when actuated, causes both delivery of the umbrella to the aortic side of the valve as well as a configuration change from closed to open. The result is that the stenotic valve is impaled on the snout and wedged between the thin-walled cylinder on the ventricular side and the open umbrella on the aortic side.

In one embodiment, the umbrella 1300 is inverted. That is to say, when it is pulled across the stenotic valve, the apex of the umbrella is the first to pass, and the outer circumference of the umbrella tines and filter disk is last to pass. In this construction, the device is preferably spring-loaded so that when the tips of the tines clear the valve orifice and tension is released, the umbrella forms as a result of its own recoil against the aortic surface of the valve.

The geometry and construction of the debridement tool is such that it will orient coaxially with respect to the left ventricular outflow tract and the valve orifice. Once the umbrella 1300 is deployed, the position is carefully inspected by echo and/or fluoroscopy. When correctly deployed, only a small gap exists between the disk and the thin-walled cylinder. It is therefore impossible to position and deploy the device with anything other than valvular tissue within this narrow gap. Only if the debridement tool was deployed at a significant angle, or was markedly undersized, could aortic or left ventricular tissue become pinched in this gap. Once it is confirmed that the debridement tool's position is correct, and the umbrella 1300 is deployed, the cylindrical razor 1295 is manually advanced and rotated, again under echo and/or fluoroscopic guidance, while maintaining tactile feedback by way of a rotating central element of the transvalvular catheter. It is not imperative that the valve be debrided in its entirety; rather, that a hole result that has edges suitable for the fixation mechanism, and that is large enough to allow fixation of the prosthesis, and that will relieve the outflow tract gradient. As the fixation mechanism and the orifice of the prosthesis may not be co-planer in this application, the demands on debridement and orifice size may be considerably less than with a conventional prosthetic valve implantation.

As soon as the cylindrical serrated razor 1295 cuts through the last of the valvular tissue, there will be no tissue remaining to prevent the spring-loaded umbrella 1300 from retracting toward the thin-walled cylinder 1290, in effect snapping a lid on the cylinder with the valve remnants inside. Inasmuch as the umbrella 1300 and the cage 1330 at the back of the thin-walled cylinder are covered with filter material, the valve tissue cannot escape. Because the filter material is fairly transparent to blood, resistance to flow and cardiac emptying should not be significantly impacted by its presence in the left ventricular outflow tract. A single-use serrated cylindrical razor 1295, with teeth of an appropriately small size, when used in a proper fashion (multiple small amplitude rotations while applying minimal force) will be able to cut a smooth round hole out of even the most calcified and thickened valve.

Once the umbrella is seen (by echo and/or fluoro) to have snapped down on the cylinder, the inference is made that the valve has been completely excised. Valvular competence at this point is provided entirely by the down-stream valve, an embodiment of which is described as the valved arch filter (see U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/425,877, filed Nov. 13, 2002 by William E. Cohn for CARDIAC VALVE PROCEDURE METHODS AND DEVICES, Attorney's Docket No. VIA-41 PROV, which patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference). Any particulate material that escapes the debridement tool is prevented from embolizing by this down-stream filter.

The closed debridement tool, with the valve remnants inside, is then passed back across the mitral valve and removed through the left atrial blood-lock.

It should also be appreciated that a valve debridement tool may also comprise a laser, an ultrasonic device, a rotary drill bit, an auger, or any other mechanism that appropriately disrupts tissue.

Furthermore, the valve debridement tool can be passed down the aorta, through the valve and across to the ventricular side for deployment and retrograde cutting.

Preferably the valve debridement tool is formed so as to be selectively collapsible, whereby it may be advanced to the surgical site through a catheter, e.g., by a catheter introduced through a peripheral artery.

In the foregoing description, the debridement tool of FIGS. 92-101 was discussed in the context of a left atrial insertion and an intra-cardiac handoff, e.g., the debridement tool is introduced into the left atrium by passing it through the side wall of the left atrium; the debridement tool is passed across the mitral valve and into the left ventricle; a transvalvular catheter is passed down the aorta and across the aortic valve; and the transvalvular catheter engages the debridement tool, establishes the requisite mechanical coupling therewith and carries the debridement tool up to the aortic valve, where the desired debridement is effected.

In another form of the invention, the left atrial insertion and intra-cardiac handoff may be effected in another manner.

More particularly, and looking next at FIG. 102, the debridement tool 1400 is mounted on a debridement catheter 1405 and introduced into the patient's femoral vein (not shown), advanced up the inferior vena cava (not shown), passed into the right atrium 1415, then moved through the atrial septum (not shown) into the left atrium 1420, and then passed through the mitral valve 1425 into the left ventricle 1430. For purposes of convenient description, this approach can be considered to be an “antegrade” approach, since it is in the same direction as blood flow.

Looking next at FIG. 103, the transvalvular catheter 1435 is introduced into the patient's femoral artery (not shown), moved up the aorta 1440, advanced up over the aortic arch 1445, and then brought down through the aortic valve 1450 and into the left ventricle 1430. For purposes of convenient description, this approach can be considered to be a “retrograde” approach, since it is in a direction opposite to blood flow.

At this point, and looking next at FIG. 104, the transvalvular catheter 1435 engages the debridement tool 1400 and establishes the requisite mechanical coupling.

Next, and looking now at FIG. 105, the transvalvular catheter 1435 is used to pull the debridement tool 1400 up to the aortic valve 1435, where the debridement is effected. Preferably the debridement catheter 1450, which is also still connected to the debridement tool 1400, is used to assist transvalvular catheter 1435 during such advancement and the debridement action.

Thereafter, once debridement is complete, the debridement tool 1400 can be disconnected from the transvalvular catheter 1435, and then the debridement catheter 1405 (with the debridement tool 1400 attached) and the transvalvular catheter 1435 withdrawn from the body.

In order to facilitate the intra-cardiac handoff, the debridement tool 1400 and the transvalvular catheter 1435 may contain magnets 1455, 1460 to assist alignment of the devices. Neodymium-iron-boron, or other rare earth magnets, can provide adequate field strength even in the small sizes desired for intraluminal delivery techniques.

Significantly, since the debridement tool 1400 is simultaneously engaged by both the debridement catheter 1405 and the transvalvular catheter 1435 during the actual debridement procedure, the debridement tool 1400 is maintained under superior control throughout the debridement procedure. In particular, since one end of the debridement tool 1400 is connected to the transvalvular catheter 1435 and the other end of the debridement tool 1400 is connected to the debridement catheter 1435, the surgeon can use a combination of push-pull actions on the two catheters 1405, 1435 so as to ensure optimum maneuvering of the debridement tool about the debridement site.

In connection with the foregoing procedure, and as noted above, where the defective native aortic valve 1450 is to be debrided and replaced by a prosthetic valve (not shown), it is important to (1) position a temporary valve (not shown) in the aorta 1440 to provide the requisite valve function, and (2) position a filter (not shown) in the aorta 1400 to entrap particles created by the debridement procedure. Preferably these two functions are provided by a single, combined valve-and-filter device (not shown). In one preferred form of the invention, this single, combined valve and filter device permits the transvalvular catheter 1435 to pass therethrough. In one particularly preferred form of the invention, this single, combined valve-and-filter device (not shown) comprises the valved arch filter (not shown) described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/425,877, filed Nov. 13, 2002 by William E. Cohn for CARDIAC VALVE PROCEDURE METHODS AND DEVICES, Attorney's Docket No. VIA-41 PROV, which patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference, with the transvalvular catheter 1435 passing down the central lumen of the valved arched filter.

In the foregoing description, left atrial insertion and intra-cardiac hand-off has been discussed in the context of maneuvering a debridement tool 1400 up to, and about, the seat 1465 of the aortic valve 1450. However, the same approach can also be used to advance and manipulate other elements (not shown) within the heart 1470 as well, e.g., a prosthetic aortic valve (not shown) could be installed at the aortic seat 1465 using a similar technique. As referred to herein, the prosthetic heart valves used in accordance with the various devices and methods of heart valve delivery may include a wide variety of different configurations, such as a prosthetic heart valve having tissue leaflets or a synthetic heart valve having polymeric, metallic, or tissue-engineered leaflets, and can be specifically configured for replacing any heart valve. That is, while much of the description herein refers to replacement of aortic valves, the prosthetic heart valves of the invention can also generally be used for replacement of native mitral, pulmonic, or tricuspid valves, for use as a venous valve, or to replace a failed bioprosthesis, such as in the area of an aortic valve or mitral valve, for example. 

1. A method for delivering a device to a given location within a heart, the method comprising: passing a first catheter through the left atrium of the heart, through the mitral valve and into the left ventricle, and passing a second catheter through the aorta toward the heart, one or the other of the first catheter and the second catheter with the device attached thereto forming a device-carrying assembly for engagement with the remaining catheter; causing the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter to engage one another so as to form a connection therebetween; retracting one of the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter in a direction opposite to the other of the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter so as to position the device relative to the given location within the heart.
 2. A method according to claim 1 wherein the device of the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter engage one another.
 3. A method according to claim 1 wherein the catheter of the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter engage one another.
 4. A method according to claim 1 wherein the device comprises a prosthesis.
 5. A method according to claim 4 wherein the prosthesis comprises an artificial valve.
 6. A method according to claim 1 wherein the device comprises a debridement tool.
 7. A method according to claim 1 wherein the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter form a mechanical interconnection.
 8. A method according to claim 11 wherein the device-carrying assembly and the remaining catheter form a magnetic interconnection.
 9. A method according to claim 1 wherein the first and second catheters are manipulated using a coordinated pull-push action.
 10. A method according to claim 1 wherein the first and second catheters are manipulated so as to effect a reciprocating motion for the device.
 11. An apparatus for delivering a device to a given location within a heart, the apparatus comprising: a first catheter and a second catheter, the first catheter having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end of the first catheter configured to pass through the left atrium of the heart, through the mitral valve into the left ventricle, the second catheter configured to pass through the aorta and the aortic valve, and at least one of the first catheter and the second catheter carrying the device; and connection means for selectively connecting the distal end of the first catheter and distal end of the second catheter to one another; wherein the first catheter and the second catheter are connected together such that the device is positioned relative to the given location within the heart by selectively retracting one of the first catheter and the second catheter so as to move the connected catheters through the heart.
 12. A method for delivering a device to a given location within a heart, the method comprising: advancing a first catheter through the left atrium of the heart, through the mitral valve and into the left ventricle; advancing a second catheter through the aorta toward the heart, advancing the second catheter through the aortic valve; connecting the first catheter and the second catheter together; and retracting one of the first catheter and the second catheter in a direction opposite to one another so as to position the device relative to the given location within the heart.
 13. A method for positioning a device at a given location within a heart, the method comprising: inserting a distal end of a first catheter into a left atrium of the heart; inserting a distal end of a second catheter into an aorta toward the heart; advancing at least one of the distal end of the first catheter and the distal end of the second catheter through the heart to position the distal end of the first catheter and the distal end of the second catheter adjacent to one another; attaching the first catheter and the second catheter to one another; retracting one of the first catheter and the second catheter, with the device in attachment to one of the first catheter and the second catheter, so as to position the device adjacent to the given location within the heart.
 14. A method according to claim 13 further comprising the steps of detaching the first catheter and the second catheter from one another, and withdrawing the distal end of the first catheter through the left atrium and withdrawing the distal end of the second catheter through the aorta.
 15. A method according to claim 13 wherein the first catheter is a debridement catheter carrying a debridement tool.
 16. A method according to claim 15 wherein the second catheter is a transvalvular catheter configured to pass through the aortic valve prior to attachment with the debridement tool.
 17. A method according to claim 13 wherein the distal end of the first catheter comprises a first magnet and the distal end of the second catheter comprises a second magnet, and wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are configured to selectively attach the first catheter and the second catheter to one another.
 18. A method according to claim 13 further comprising the step of disconnecting the first catheter and the second catheter from one another.
 19. A method according to claim 18 further comprising the step of removing the first catheter and the second catheter from the heart. 